Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Caldwell, Idaho to Cresskill, New Jersey
Are you planning a road trip from Caldwell, Idaho to Cresskill, New Jersey? While this trip may seem daunting, it is the perfect opportunity to discover hidden gems along the way. From majestic scenery to quirky roadside attractions, this journey promises an unforgettable experience. The road trip is approximately 2,585 miles and it takes roughly 40 hours to complete. However, this time frame can be extended depending on the number of pit stops taken throughout the journey.
Halfway Point: Shelby, IA
Before getting into the list of unique places to stop, it is essential to mention the halfway point: Shelby, IA. This small town is the perfect break for drivers and their passengers, offering an escape from the monotony of driving. Some activities to consider in Shelby include visiting the Farmall-Land USA hosting a rich collection of local tractors or taking a stroll through the Vintage Iron and Toy Museum, showcasing over 100 pedal tractors and 500 vintage tractors.
Now, let's dive into the five unexpected places to stop on this long cross-country drive!
1. The Enchanted Highway - Regent, North Dakota
The Enchanted Highway is a 32-mile long stretch of road between I-94 and Regent, North Dakota. The Highway is home to the world's largest collection of scrap metal sculptures, with pieces ranging from Giant Grasshoppers to the Tin Family. These awe-inspiring sculptures are just as impressive as they are unique. Visitors can also grab a bite to eat at the Enchanted Castle Restaurant, where they serve some of the best pizzas in the area.
2. Badlands National Park - South Dakota
After leaving North Dakota, the next stop is Badlands National Park, located in southwestern South Dakota. This national park is over 244,000 acres of striking landscapes, rugged terrain, and hiking trails. The eroded buttes and spires create contrasting formations throughout the national park. Visitors can drive through Loop Road for an up-close view of these canyons and wildlife, including bison, bighorn sheep, and pronghorn. For a fulfilling bite to eat during a break from exploring, visitors can grab an order of the famous Indian taco at Cedar Pass Lodge.
3. West Virginia Penitentiary - Moundsville, West Virginia
One of the most unexpected and unique stops along the route is The West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville, West Virginia. A former penitentiary, this site now serves as a museum offering tours of the facility. Visitors can safely roam the facility as guides share the history of the prison, stories of inmates, and the secrets behind the deaths that occurred in this operating penitentiary for over one hundred years. A visit to West Virginia Penitentiary wouldn't be complete without trying its famous prison-style hotdogs and polish sausages.
4. The Fallingwater House - Mill Run, Pennsylvania
Frank Lloyd Wright's spectacular Fallingwater is undoubtedly one of the attractions travelers may not expect to see. Mill Run, Pennsylvania located just South-East of Pittsburgh, is home to this well-known house designed in 1935. Fallingwater sits over a waterfall and is considered a pinnacle of sustainable architecture. Visitors are welcome to take guided tours of the house, enjoying the breathtaking views of the house, waterfall, and surrounding woods. For a tasty meal, the Bear Run Inn not too far off from the house serves delicious American cuisine.
5. Chanticleer Garden - Wayne, Pennsylvania
The final stop on the list is Chanticleer Garden in Wayne, Pennsylvania. This twenty-seven-acre garden is unlike any other located in the outskirts of Philadelphia. Chanticleer Garden is recognized for its surreal design, impeccable landscaping, and an ideal balance of horticulture, architecture, and art. The garden is open between April and October, kicking off with a seasonal bloom of more than 150,000 bulbs that blanket the gardens. Visitors can later grab a bite to eat at the Garden Café, which offers fresh farm-to-table dishes perfect for a summer day.
Why take this trip?
In conclusion, the drive from Caldwell, Idaho to Cresskill, New Jersey may seem daunting, but it's also an opportunity to discover hidden gems. From North Dakota to Pennsylvania, this journey offers a unique and diverse display of landscapes, roadside attractions, and local bites. The road trip offers an opportunity to create lifelong memories, learning more about those you travel with and the beautiful parts of the country in between. So, why not embark on a road trip full of unexpected adventures?